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Proactive Legal Strategies for Family Entertainment Centers with Kevin Lonzo – Podcast Episode 133
Audio Links: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio | Pandora
Episode Description
On this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with Kevin Lonzo, founder of Lonzo Law, to discuss why the traditional “reactive” legal model is broken. Kevin shares his journey from FEC employee to industry-specialized attorney, explaining how attraction owners can protect their dreams through proactive counsel, subscription-based legal plans, and a deep understanding of the “three buckets of liability.”
“The simple answer is: how do you approach it? You call your lawyer before you put your name [on a contract]. If you are a business owner, you have to think through what you’ve gone through to get that business open.”
– Kevin Lonzo
In the world of Family Entertainment Centers (FECs), liability is a core part of the business model. From high-speed go-karts to immersive laser tag arenas, every attraction brings a unique set of risks.
Key Takeaways
- Categorize FEC Risks – Every entertainment venue owner manages three distinct areas of liability: human resources (minor employee safety and conduct), premises liability (slips, falls, and attraction incidents), and contractual obligations (leases and vendor agreements).
- Review Before You Sign – FEC contracts often contain predatory language or “indemnification” clauses that shift all blame to the operator, even in cases of manufacturer negligence. Expert legal review prevents these “house of cards” scenarios before the attraction opens.
- Train for Prevention – Proactive legal health relies on documented policies, rigorous staff training, and consistent incident reporting. A clear paper trail of “reasonableness” serves as the best defense against litigation in a high-traffic entertainment environment.
- Select the Best Growth Path – Scale an entertainment brand through one of three models: organic expansion for total control, franchising for maximum reach with heavy regulation, or licensing for brand growth with lower overhead but less operational oversight.
